India Removes Onion Export Duty and MEP: What It Means for B2B Importers

Summary: Effective early 2026, the Government of India has completely scrapped the 20% export duty and removed the Minimum Export Price (MEP) restrictions on fresh red onions. This returns onion exports to a "Free" trade policy category, presenting massive cost-saving procurement windows for global importers.

1. The Shift to "Free" Export Policy

Following domestic stabilization measures and robust crop yields in key agrarian zones like Nashik (Maharashtra), the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has fully removed the strict minimum export pricing limits and the hefty 20% export duty. This trade policy shift allows global wholesalers and distributors to source premium Nashik red onions at direct-from-field spot prices, dramatically increasing B2B import margins.

2. Why Nashik Varieties Dominate Global Markets

Nashik red onions are highly favored across the GCC (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait), Europe, and Southeast Asia. Their natural high pungency, thick double-skin wraps, and low moisture content make them highly resilient against decay during long maritime container transits. Under the current duty-free regime, buyers can place high-volume contracts (15 MT or 1 FCL minimum) without regulatory tariff hurdles.

3. Ensuring Phytosanitary and APEDA Compliance

Even with the removal of export duties, quality checks remain stringent. To clear customs at destination ports smoothly, every shipment must hold a valid **Phytosanitary Certificate** and clear APEDA-approved inspection protocols. Onexin Pvt Ltd. works directly with certified packing houses in Nashik, managing grading, dry-curing, cold-chain reefer loading, and absolute compliance documentation on behalf of global buyers.

Ready to secure bulk Nashik red onion volumes under the new zero-duty trade policy? Submit a sourcing request on our homepage to lock in direct factory rates today.